The Alberta Society of Radiologists (ASR) is proud to support the International Day of Radiology (IDoR), November 8, which marks the 121st anniversary of the discovery of the x-ray. This year, IDoR is dedicated to breast imaging and the essential role that radiology plays in the detection, diagnosis and management of breast disease.
Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumour. It’s projected that in 2016 approximately 25,700 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in Canada. Regular mammography screening cuts breast cancer deaths by roughly a third in women ages 40 and over, making screening programs and accessible medical imaging services essential. A mammogram is a breast exam used to help in early detection and diagnosis of breast disease in women.
Calgary radiologist and ASR President, Dr. Robert Davies, says International Day of Radiology is a great way to remind people about the importance of screening programs and radiology services. “The International Day of Radiology provides the opportunity to reinforce the fact that all women 40 and older should consider the benefits of regular mammograms. About 75 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no special identifiable risks, which emphasizes the importance of regular screening.”
Albertans have access to the best breast cancer screening program in Canada. Radiologists provide over 1,000 mammograms a day in 65 clinics and 12 hospital facilities. The average time from detection of a potential concern to a firm diagnosis is less than two weeks – the fastest in the country.
Including all types of exams – not just mammograms – Radiologists in community clinics provide 14,000 diagnostic imaging procedures each working day in Alberta. “We strive to make essential medical imaging services, like mammography, accessible to everyone. The community-based model allows radiologists to support the Government of Alberta to ensure appropriate access to services all over the province, not just in hospitals. With 138 community clinics in over 30 communities, we can cut down wait times and increase quality of service,” says Davies.
The ASR was proud to support the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) as they helped to raise awareness of the value of breast screening and the critical role of radiologists in Canada on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on November 3rd.
About Radiologists:
Radiologists are medical doctors who specialize in the understanding and interpretation of medical imaging tests like mammograms, MRI, CT scans and ultrasounds. Radiologists work with patients and their doctors to determine the best imaging tests for a concern. They interpret the results, provide the official report, and can offer guidance on treatment options or next steps. Radiologists also perform precise image-guided procedures such as biopsies, stents, drains, and injections. Radiologists practice in both community-based clinics and hospitals.
About the Alberta Society of Radiologists:
The Alberta Society of Radiologists (ASR) is a not for profit society incorporated in April 1957. The organization represents 92 per cent of the full time radiologists and radiology residents in the province of Alberta. The ASR is a voluntary professional organization.